Car theft suspect charged with robbery with a firearm

Most people in Belleville regard automobiles as a necessary part of modern life, but for some, cars are the source of criminal behavior. A young man from Cahokia has been charged with six very serious felonies in connection with his unsuccessful attempt to steal a car.

The suspect was allegedly attempting to steal a car in O’Fallon when an unknown person interrupted him. The suspect pointed a pistol at the interloper and climbed into the car. He drove off but not before the witness was able to furnish a description of the suspect and the stolen vehicle to police shortly after the incident occurred.

Police used the description to locate the car in O’Fallon. After the police spotted him, the suspect drove away and onto Interstate 64. Police noticed that two juvenile suspects were in the car with him. The police gave chase, and when the suspect crashed the car at the intersection of two highways in Pontoon Beach, police were able arrest him and the two young suspects. The driver is being held at the St. Clair County Jail after being charged with armed robbery with a firearm, unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle, aggravated possession of stolen firearms, burglar, and two counts of fleeing from police officers. Police are continuing to investigate the status of the two juveniles.

The main suspect in this case is facing very serious criminal charges. If he should be convicted, he could be sentenced to several years in prison and payment of a substantial fine. Anyone facing similar charges may wish to consult a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for an evaluation of the law and evidence in the case and, if circumstances warrant, assistance in negotiating a favorable plea agreement.